The Ridgefield School District (RSD) honored its employees and students of the month on Dec. 10 at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Two employees and eight students were recognized.
Stephanie Pedersen, third grade teacher, South Ridge Elementary School
Stephanie Pedersen is an asset to South Ridge Elementary School due to her intentionality when connecting with her students’ families, according to a press release. Each year, Pedersen schedules virtual visits with each family. Her efforts are especially impactful for multilingual families. “Stephanie brings out the best in students and colleagues alike. She makes me want to be a better teacher. I am privileged to work with her,” a colleague said in the press release.
Erika Muir, K-12 Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program teacher on special assignment
Erika Muir is a champion of inclusivity as part of the Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program at RSD. In her classroom, language diversity is respected and celebrated. Beyond the classroom, Muir provides multilingual support for teachers and works alongside RSD families to help multilingual students reach academic success. “By providing parents with clear communication, ensuring their access to translated materials and interpreters and facilitating multilingual family nights, Ms. Muir empowers families to actively participate in their children's education,” a colleague said in the press release.
Cecilia “Cece” Loverro, pre-K, Early Learning Center
Cecilia “Cece” Loverro is a student brimming with kindness. Early Learning Center staff appreciate Loverro’s helpful demeanor, and she sets a great example for her peers, the RSD press release stated. She’s a loving classroom leader and brings a positive attitude to the classroom each day.
Aspen Samson, second grade, South Ridge Elementary School
Aspen Samson embodies respect, responsibility and resilience at South Ridge Elementary School. Samson often takes initiative in the classroom, leading the group with thought-provoking questions that lead discussion toward deeper thinking. His actions and attitude set a remarkable example for his peers, Samson’s teachers stated in the press release.
Yvonne Jackson, fourth grade, Union Ridge Elementary School
Yvonne Jackson is a hardworking student who brings maximum effort to all of her classwork. Yvonne’s teacher praised her academic resilience in the press release. She always tackles challenges with positivity and determination, never wavering in her studies. She is also known for her amenable attitude, which allows her to work well with her peers.
Liam Sainsburry, sixth grade, Sunset Ridge Intermediate School
Liam Sainsburry is an exceptional student, known by Sunset Ridge Intermediate School faculty for his dependability and flexibility. Sainsburry is a dedicated student, who studies academics with sincere interest. Sainsburry often goes the extra mile to be inclusive and welcoming to his peers, even to those who may not reciprocate his kindness. His teachers commended his ability to treat each student and staff member with care and respect in the press release.
Max Rodriguez, eighth grade, Wisdom Ridge Academy
Max Rodriguez has flourished since joining Wisdom Ridge Academy. “Max moved to Ridgefield this summer and joined Wisdom Ridge Academy with several of his family members. It became apparent within minutes of meeting Max that he was especially bright,” his teacher Lindsay Robblee said in the press release. Because of the flexibility offered by Wisdom Ridge Academy, Rodriguez has begun pursuing mechanics and music outside of school. Rodriguez stated he would like to study the subjects at a university after graduation.
Elijah Crawford, eighth grade, View Ridge Middle School
Elijah Crawford is an excellent role model in academics and sportsmanship at View Ridge Middle School. In physical education, Crawford helps his peers and celebrates their victories as much as his own. With a bright and inquisitive mind, Crawford has excelled in science and asks insightful questions during class. “Elijah is a pleasant, attentive student who works well with others and brings a positive energy to every classroom,” his teacher said in the press release.
Elliana Lewis, 12th grade, Ridgefield High School
Elliana Lewis is a shining star of dedication and inclusivity within the Ridgefield High School community. In addition to her 4.0 GPA, while taking rigorous advanced placement courses, she participates in the high school’s theater and band departments. “There is no student more deserving of this recognition than Elliana. They are one of the most hardworking and dedicated members of the theater and band departments, while also being one of the kindest humans I've ever met,” Ridgefield High School theater teacher Kaitlyn Etter said in the press release. Her academic success is driven by hard work, perseverance and a genuine love for learning, according to her teachers.
